Laser Treatment

Laser treatment of scars diminishes the capillaries and veins in and around the scar. The laser (most commonly the KTP laser) seals the blood vessels without breaking the skin.

The procedure is usually performed after 4 months of healing. Topical anesthesia with numbing ointment is usually sufficient to make the procedure tolerable. Local anesthetic injection can be used for additional numbing.

The area of the treatment will feel like a sunburn for 24-48 hours. It is treated with Aquaphor ointment for 5 days. Mild skin crusting can occur and resolves in less than a week. The procedure may need to be repeated 2 more times spaced 2 weeks apart. Insurance does not cover this procedure. Cost to the patient is $250-$500 for the entire course of laser treatment of the scar.